If You Want To Go Far…

When writing this blog, I do my best to keep the topic current with what is currently happening in the journey of building this brand. Plus, it’s my hope to share helpful thoughts and ideas that may spur you on in whatever goals or dreams you have rolling around in your noggin.

Looking at what is going on right now, here is what came to mind:

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with others.”

This is an African proverb, and I’m kinda stunned I haven’t already done a lettering post on it yet (clearly, I’ll be addressing that soon).

I do remember first hearing this phrase many years ago when youthful exuberance resulted in boundless energy, optimistic stubbornness and a splash of naiveté. It was through that lens that I responded with something like, “Oh, I bet I could not only go fast alone, I probably could go pretty darn far too.”

Aww, sweet girl, you completely missed the point.

It isn’t a challenge, or even a rebuke, of either option, it is merely stating the reality. Think of it more like menu options: Option 1 is for fast, Option 2 is for far.

For example, when I’m looking to run errands or do grocery shopping in a timely manner, I’d rather leave the fam at home, cuz I’m in task mode and they are only gonna slow me down.

This journey of growing my handlettering business is all about going far, so I’m all in on Option 2.

What started out as a 30-day challenge I was just dabbling with is now it’s own brand that I continue to shape and grow. Honestly, I don’t even know how big this thing could get (that’s what she said). [sorry I’ve been watching too much of The Office lately]

So if I have a long way to go, and it’s not about quick fixes, then I need to have a variety of places that I get support. Some of which I’ve talked about — obviously my hubby is in the trenches with me, as well as various friends and family, chiming in support of my ideas, but what about support from other professionals or people who have similar aspirations?

I have recently been connecting with other small business owners through Instagram because of an awesome Online Diva named Hilary Rushford. She teaches a class called Instagram With Intention. The class is super helpful in upping my Instagram game and the group of gals I’ve met through the class are top notch and very knowledgable.

I’ve also been connecting with other entrepreneurs and soaking up all of the fantastic resources Sean McCabe puts out through his business SeanWes like a sponge .

He started out as a letterer, but because he has so much business savvy he’s built courses, products and, ultimately, a community where like-minded individuals can encourage each other in building their businesses. He teaches stuff like “How to get out of a soul-sucking day job and do the work that you love and that fulfills you.” Clearly, he’s awesome.

Some days it can feel like drinking from a fire hydrant, however the alternative of trying to figure all of this out alone seems much more overwhelming.

So, whatever you’ve got going on (or maybe are just considering dipping your toe into trying something new), while you may start out solo, at some point, if you really are wanting to go far don’t be shy about enlisting others along the way. Whether it is the support of friends and family or reaching out to some folks with similar interests online, not going it alone can make the difference.

Oh BTW, sorry to kinda spring this on you, but today is the last day for our Shop Opening Sale. For those of you who were thinking a few weeks back that you had plenty of time (which you totally did), we are now just a few hours away from that deal going away, so don’t miss out!